John Flemister, a 61-year-old African American man, was fatally shot on April 12, 2025, near the UIC-Halsted Blue Line station in Chicago. Flemister, who worked as a doorman at several West Loop buildings, was involved in a verbal altercation with a 24-year-old CTA employee, Luther Hopkins III, of Calumet City. The dispute escalated into an exchange of gunfire, resulting in Flemister being struck multiple times, including in the head, chest, back, hip, and wrist. He was transported to Stroger Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Chicago police arrested Hopkins at the scene. He was charged with one felony count of unlawful use of a weapon but was not charged with murder. Prosecutors stated that Hopkins acted in self-defense, as Flemister allegedly pulled his firearm first. Hopkins had a valid Firearm Owners Identification Card but did not possess a concealed carry permit. Flemister, on the other hand, had both a valid FOID card and a concealed carry license. A firearm was found next to Flemister, and another was recovered from his duffel bag.
The CTA has stated that Hopkins violated several workforce rules, including the prohibition of firearms on duty, and is pursuing disciplinary action against him, potentially leading to termination. Flemister’s family and community members gathered for a vigil to honor his memory, describing him as a kind and generous individual who played a significant role in raising his sister’s and niece’s children. His niece expressed disbelief over the circumstances of his death, emphasizing his reputation as a helpful and caring person.
